Blog - leadership video

"Having courage doesn't mean you aren't afraid, it just means you care more about something else than what you fear."

I am the grateful father of eight children. Yes, that's right - eight! Married 28 years I have learned a lot about leadership in the confines of my own home. Many of those lessons came from my children.

I produced "Leaders Care"to tell the true story of two of my children ages two and five that will help leaders care enough to do hard things and find greater courage.

As "Leaders Care" highlights, having courage doesn't mean you aren't afraid, it just means you care more about something else than what you fear. And great leaders care a lot!

From a posting on my blog about a year ago, "Having Courage Doesn't Mean You Aren't Afraid" I gave three tips to help all leaders gain greater courage in what they do. Whether that be a difficult conversation with an employee; making the right decision, not the most popular; or simply finding the courage to be honest - leaders that care find it easier to do the difficult things.

My three tips...

1. Do It! This may not be the most creative or cutting advice you have ever received on how to have courage, but I bet it is the most direct. Facing fears is an endorphin rush. Running away or procrastinating only lowers confidence and creates regret.

2. Care. I have already mentioned this one. The greatest leaders in history have cared the most. The more you care the easier it is to show courage. Think about a mother who loves her children, she would do anything for them including giving her own life.

3. Ask Yourself. Facing our fears does require us to ask two important questions: What’s the worst thing that could happen if I face this fear; what’s the worst thing that could happen if I don’t? And don’t just think about what the worst thing is that could happen to you, but think about those you lead, your team and your company.

Leaders Care is perfect for the team or organization where you are trying to instill courage in leadership.